PhD places

PhD candidates come in all shapes and sizes, from those with an appointment at the University to dual PhDs who have a job outside the University. Here we explain which PhD places we have at Leiden University, so you can quickly see which type suits you.

Funded PhD candidates

The University may appoint full or part-time PhD candidates. Most PhD candidates have a funded place as a PhD candidate. A full-time place is in principle a four-year appointment with 10% teaching duties. PhD candidates sometimes choose to do a cotutelle or joint doctorate. You can also be appointed as a PhD fellow. This is a six-year appointment with 35% teaching duties.

PhDs without a funded place

Contract PhDs receive a grant in their country of origin, which enables them to conduct PhD research at our university. External PhDs or dual PhDs do not receive any funding in principle. They write their thesis – often alongside their regular work – under the supervision of a supervisor from Leiden. To be accepted as an external PhD, you must have your PhD proposal approved by a Graduate School. The University also has a dual PhD programme to give experienced ‘knowledge workers’ the opportunity to earn a PhD at Leiden University.